Fun Travels Across the United States
OKLAHOMA
NEWS:
Please note -- Cities and Towns follow the NEWS in alphabetical order
There's lots going on in Oklahoma ----
Life, Art and Coffee Stirrers Goldsworthy of the Coffee Shop on Exhibit through Sept. 25
Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition Upcoming Opportunities for Artists, Writers & Curators
Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, in partnership with Oklahoma Art in Public Places, presents two workshops to answer questions and help artists prepare to apply for the Public Art Mentorship (see below). Workshops are open to all artists who are interested in public art. Hear from Stan Carroll, an artist experienced in making large-scale artwork, as well as Debby Williams, Director of Oklahoma Art in Public Places…
BARTLESVILLE
More soon
EDMOND
“A Cut and a Shave: The History of the Barbershop” Exhibit to Open
Since settlers first arrived in the city of Edmond, people needed the basic essentials: food, water, and of course, a cut and a shave. The Land Run brought thousands of people to Oklahoma and Edmond from various backgrounds and professions. Some of these pioneers were even barbers.
FREDERICK
More soon!
GUTHRIE
GUTHRIE EVENTS & PLACES OF INTEREST
Oklahoma Sports Museum
Named the state's official sports museum in 1996, this museum recognizes professional and Olympic athletes who have Oklahoma ties and use their influence through varied activities to encourage youth to be "Drug Free" and live a positive lifestyle. It is the aim of the Museum to recognize those athletes and coaches who have succeeded in their fields and to work with the youth of this state in using these athletes and coaches as role models. The memorabilia and careers of many famous Oklahoma athletes are highlighted here, such as Jim Thorpe, Mickey Mantle, Troy Aikman and Shannon Miller. Each year the museum honors the best left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball with the Warren Spahn Award.
The museum is located at 315 W. Oklahoma Avenue, Guthrie; 406-260-1342. Open Monday-saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. For more information check web site www.oklahomasportsmuseum.com. Donations are appreciated
Frontier Drug Store Museum
In the 1970s, an Oklahoma pharmacist who had devoted nearly 40 years of his life to the profession of pharmacy, realized that the heritage of pharmacy was changing. He then decided to create a vast collection of a vanishing heritage and spearheaded the collection and restoration of pharmacy memorabilia from pharmacists throughout the region. The site of the Oklahoma Frontier Durg Store Museum was purchased on July 1, 1992, and today it depicts the ld time flair and ambience of drug stores from the past.
Housed in the Gaffney Building, built in 1890 and located in the heart of Guthrie's restored Victorian downtown, the museum was placed here for several reasons -- the main one being that Foress B. Lillie was a participant in the land run, and set up for business as soon as shots were fired to indicate the starting time. Lillie was one of the men to have a part in the formation of the Oklahoma Pharmaceutical Association in 1895, and was the first secretary of the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy. In addition, he was issued the No. 1 certificate as practicing pharmacist in Oklahoma.
The museum is open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m.-5 pm.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m.-4 p.m. It is closed Mondays. Donation suggested.
Location: 214 West Oklahoma Street, Guthrie, Oklahoma 73044; 405-282-1895
Aunt Gertrude's House
This gallery is filled with American craft and fine art including jewelry, glass, wood, paintings, pottery, collage and sculpture. There's also a room filled with antique dolls and Steiff mohair animals. Sister's Doll Hospital, located within the shop, provides a fascinating and delightful glimpse into the art of doll restorations.
Located at 112 E. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-260-2345; www.auntgertrudeshouse.com
Guthrie Scottish Rite Masonic Center
Completed in 1929, the Temple sits on 10.6 acres originally platted as the Capital Park. The old legislative hall, which housed the State Legislature prior to 1910, was incorporated in the Temple building, creating more than 400,000 sq. ft. of floor space. The interior design and decor was inspired by the ancient Egyptian, Assyrian, Greek, and Roman civilizations, as well as Revival and Renaissance architecture. Each of the Temple's 16 major rooms is exquisitely furnished in period style, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and over 390 stained glass windows. The Temple also houses a museum and archives of historically significant artifacts pertaining to Freemasonry.
For more information check the Masonic Center at 900 E. Oklahoma Avenue, Guthrie; 405-282-1281 or go to web site www.guthriescottishrite.org. Guided tours are available Monday-Friday at 10 am and 2 pm. Admission charged.
Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library
Through artifacts, photographs, and paintings, the Oklahoma Territorial Museum tells the story of the determined people who laid the foundation for the future state of Oklahoma. On the museum grounds stands the Carnegie Library, where the first state governor was inaugurated. Preserved by the Oklahoma Historical Society, the building as well as the museum, serves as a visible link between Oklahoma's turbulent Territorial Period and the present. Conference space and educational programs are available.
For more information go to 406 E. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-282-1889. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am-5 pm. Donation suggested.
Double Stop Fiddle Shop and Music Hall
Here you'll find a wide variety of guitars, banjos and mandolins, both new and vintage, for professionals, beginners, and collectors. The Shop also offers repair and rehairing services, and is the home of world champion fiddler Byron Berline who offers performances many Saturday nights in the Music Hall.
Location: 121 E. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-282-6646; www.doublestop.com
Kokopelli Trails
This shop specializes in Native American and Southwestern jewelry, gifts and collectibles. It has won various retail awards including the #1 Painted Pony retailer in the U.S. Inside is also the gallery of Aloma Wolfington, a self-taught artist specializing in horses and Native American subjects.
Location: 113 W. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-260-0600; www.kokopellitrails.com
Owen Fine Art Museum
This is organized exclusively for artistic, cultural, and educational purposes. The mission of the Owens Arts Place Museum Foundation is to secure, organize and exhibit fine art. They do a variety of cultural activities and work closely with the public schools and senior citizens.
Located at 1202 E. harrison Avenue. For more information, call 405-260-0204 or go to www.owensmuseum.com. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Sunday from 1-4 pm.
The International Model Railroad Museum
The museum houses a collection of multi-gauge model railroad exhibits as well as railroad history. It also includes model automobile exhibits, both vintage and contemporary. The museum is located inside the Santa Fe Depot, which was completed in 1903 and housed passenger service, mail service, the "Harvey House," a news stand, employee living quarters and offices.
The museum is run by volunteers, so please call for hours. Donations requested. It is located at 409 W. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-260-0700. For more information check web site www.theoldsantafedepotofguthrie.com
State Capital Publishing Museum
This museum is home to a dynamic collection f territorial and early statehood printing presses, bindery equipment, newspapers and publishing history. Designed by Joseph Foucart and built in 1902 by Frank Hilton Greer, this building housed the first newspaper in Oklahoma Territory and the largest printing plant west of the Mississippi. Greer developed a politically powerful newspaper with the largest circulation in the Territory aided by installation of the first Linotype in Oklahoma. He also embarked on a campaign of scathing criticism of Governor Haskell, the first state governor, which contributed to the vote to remove the capital to Oklahoma City. Conference space and exciting educational programs are available.
The museum is located at 301 W. Harrison, Guthrie; 405-282-4123. Open Thursday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. Suggested Donation is $2
GUTHRIE'S FESTIVALS
Guthrie Art Walk
This progressive celebration of the fine arts is held twice each year and showcases the unique shops and galleries and celebrates artists from across the region. The leisurely walkabout is a great way to meet the artists and brose Guthrie's Downtown Historic District. Held in March and November.
Admission is free. For more information call 405-293-4546
'89er Celebration
This festival commemorates and celebrates Oklahoma's 1889 Land Run, which made Guthrie an instant city of over 10,000 people. It offers an old-fashioned chuck wagon feed, entertainment, one of Oklahoma's largest parades, the '89er rodeo, arts, crafts, and a carnival for loads of family fun. Merchants also dress their windows to the annual '89er theme and compete for prizes and recognition.
Held in April and sponsored by the American legion Post. For information call 405-282-2589. Admission varies based on the activity.
Guthrie Road Show
With this one, you can cruise through Historic Guthrie and celebrate America's long time infatuation with the vintage automobile, and stroll among some classics.
Held in September and sponsored by the Flashbacks Car Club. For more information call 405-505-5640.
Apples and Quilts Festival
Guthrie's autumn festival celebrates the artistry of America's homemakers and the quilts that reflect their heritage and traditions. The fabrics of our lives, lovingly stitched to decorate a bed, cover a child or celebrate a marriage are on display throughout the Downtown Historic District. The festival includes numerous quilt exhibits and vendors line the streets showcasing anything ad everything related to apples and quilts.
Held in September and sponsored by the Guthrie Retailers Association. Admission is free. For more information call 405-282-1272 or check web site www.shpguthrie.com
Oklahoma's International Bluegrass Festival
This is Guthrie's largest three day festival, featuring top bluegrass bands from around the world. Visitors from all four corners of the globe flock to Guthrie to enjoy the entertainment, children's tent, music workshoips, and more. On Sunday there is the Annual Bluegrass Celebrity Golf Tournament to enjoy. There are campsites and RV sites available to camp out at the festival all weekend.
Held the first weekend in October and sponsored by the Oklahoma International Bluegras sFestival, Inc. For more information call 405-282-4446 or check website www.oibf.com
Guthrie Art and Wine Festival
The Annual Guthrie Art & Wine Festival is a juried fine art show set in the heart of Guthrie's downtown historical district on Oklahoma Avenue. Enjoy fine art while sipping Oklahoma wines and stroll the streets of this historic town. Learn from artist's demonstrations and talks.
Held the first Saturday and Sunday in October and sponsored by the Oklahoma AVenue Association. Admission is free. For more information call 405-563-1826 or check web site www.goartandwinefestival.com
Territorial Christmas Celebration
Take a step back in time and celebrate Christmas in grand Territorial style. The weekend after Thanksgiving, the festival is kicked off by a nigh time lighted parade and the presentation of the newly eleted Territorial Governor. Throughout the holiday season, the celebration continues. The Pollard theatre puts on "A Territorial Christmas Carol," which is based on the Dickens classic. There are also Candlelight Trolley Tours Wassail Nights, A Historic Homes Tour, and so much more. At the Double Stop Music Hall there is a variety of evenings filled with seasonal music. On the evenings of the Victorian Walks, live window displays depict the life in 19th century Guthrie, caroliers, peanut vendors, costumed visitors and lights fill the Historic District.
Held from the first weekend after Thanksgiving to Christmas and sponsored by the Guthrie Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 405-282-1947 or 800-299-1889 or check web site www.guthrieok.com.
LANGLEY
More soon!
LAWTON
Arts, Humanities the Focus of Meeting in Lawton
The Oklahoma Arts Council and the Oklahoma Humanities Council are partnering with Lawton's Museum of the Great Plains to host a town hall meeting focusing on the arts and humanities…
NORMAN
Museum Movie Night Features Mad Costume Contest for “Alice in Wonderland”
Calling all Mad Hatters, March Hares and White Rabbits! The Sam Noble Museum in Norman is featuring a mad, mad costume contest as part of its monthly Movie Night at the Museum on Friday, June 18. The movie of the month will be Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland…
Harmon's Career is "One to Watch"
“It’s a tremendous recognition that Riley Harmon is highlighted as one of the state’s exceptional visual artists,” says Jonathan Hils, associate professor of contemporary sculpture at the OU School of Art and Art History. “The OU art program produces many award winning students whose art will influence communities across the state and our nation
Museum Offers Free Admission on "Library Day"
On Saturday, June 26, the Sam Noble Museum will team up with local libraries to offer “Library Day” at the museum. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum will offer free admission to anyone with a library card. For those without library cards, representatives…
OKLAHOMA CITY
Colored Pencils Exhibit Brightens The Sooner State
People are drawing on the walls at Science Museum Oklahoma. Not literally – the new exhibit “The Spectacular Colored Pencil” takes place on canvas, but that hasn’t changed it from transforming museum’s Satellite Galleries…
Summer Learning Fun at Science Museum Oklahoma -- Summer Camp Asks the Question “Did You Ever?”
Science Museum Oklahoma is offering kids a cool escape from a typical summer camp experience. This summer the museum will host six weeks of summer camps that asks the question, “Did You Ever?”…
Oklahoma City’s Adventure District
Some of Oklahoma’s finest vacation spots are located in northeast Oklahoma City. With seven outstanding tourist attractions in one central location, the Adventure District features a variety of entertainment options that appeal to those of all ages and on a tight budget
World War Two Submarine to be Given Second Chance
Efforts are underway to protect, renovate, and restore a rare World War II submarine and its Memorial facility in Muskogee, Oklahoma. After 35 years of resting in the soil of a former bean field along the shores of the Arkansas River, USS Batfish volunteers, veterans, and previous members of her crew are now striving to save this one-of-a kind historical relic…
Firefighters Museum Adds Audio Tour, Playground
Firefighters Museum adds audio tour, playground OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum and Memorial recently installed modern technology and a children’s playground to enhance guests’ visits while learning about firefighting. Mike Billingsley, museum manager, said the museum added a new audio tour in July. The tour, professionally done with background music lasting about 35 minutes, educates visitors on the history of firefighting…
OKLAHOMA RESTAURANTS (My favorites)
Zio's Zany Kitchen, Oklahoma City, OK
With an open kitchen, comfortable seating, and a casual atmosphere, Zio's turns out great food at reasonable prices. Everything is made from scratch and brought at the right temperature from the open kitchen. I had the Chicken Parmagian, which was delicious, but the pasta was a bit overdone. Despite that, I'd go back again without hesitation. Tip: If there's a long wait, ask to be seated at the bar. The stools are comfortable, and the service is excellent. It's also entertaining to watch the bartender mix drinks. If you have children, don't hesitate to bring them here -- the Kid's Menu is $3.99 and includes a soft drink. Kid's choices run from macaroni and cheese, spagetti and meatballs, grilled chicken, to a grilled cheese sandwich, chicken tenders, cheese pizza, or cheese ravioli. They'll also receive a fun placemat to draw on or solve puzzles.
Abuelo's Mexican Restaurant, Oklahoma City, OK
My partner and I were greeted the moment we stepped inside the Mexican courtyard-themed restaurant and were quickly seated. Our server showed up in about five minutes, with a bowl of thin, tasty chips and a tangy sauce. After perusing the huge variety of dishes offered, we decided to order our favorite - Fajitas. I ordered the Fajita Trio consisting of steak, chicken and shrimp, while my partner ordered the Fajita Marinated Steak. If you're a vegetarian, there's also a Vegetable Fajita. We weren't disappointed. The presentation was lovely, the food came sizzling hot, and the huge portion, delicious. We immediately understood why locals had steered us to Abuelo's and we regretted trying the Mexican restaurant opposite Abuelo's adjoining the canal where I had to return my order and still wasn't happy with the replacement. After this delicious dinner, we walked along nearby the canal to complete a great evening. Abuelo's rices were reasonable, and we'd definitely return.
Location: In the heart of Bricktown at 17 East Sheridan/Bricktown, Oklahoma City, OK 73104; 405-235-1422.
Russ's Ribs (Bristow, OK)
This small cafe isn't muc h to look at from the outside or, for that matter, inside. But, it had the best BBQ sliced steak I have ever tasted! In fact, while eating the BBQ, fantastic baked beans and sweet potato deep fries, I couldn't stop expressing my joy in devouring the best lunch I've ever had while on vacation! The manager obliged by telling me that the yummy steak I was eating was Tri Tip, and customers also love the Flat Iron steak that he lets sit in a secret recipe sauce. The place is unpretencious, but the food makes a huge statement - and is why anyone and everyone who drives along Route 66 should stop in. In addition to the BBQ ribs and steak, there's much more - including frogs legs and one of the best peach cobbler deserts anywhere. Before leaving, feel free to ask Russ for a marking pen to sign one of the walls. Signatures on the wall attest to the fact that visitors from all over the world loved this barbeque joint on historic Route 66.
Located at 223 S. Main Street, Bristow, OK; 918-367-5656 along Route 66